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What is glossopharyngeal breathing (GPB)?
Glossopharyngeal breathing, often referred to as “frog breathing” is an active physiotherapy technique taught to be carried out independently by someone who would normally rely on mechanical respiratory support. It involves gulping air into lungs, using the tongue as the main organ of breathing.
The technique is used not just to assist normal breathing, but is also effective in assisting speaking and coughing. In some cases glossopharyngeal breathing proves so effective can allow for discontinuation of mechanical respiratory support.
What are the benefits of glossopharyngeal breathing?
There are several benefits of the glossopharyngeal breathing technique, most of which are long-term benefits. They include:
- Improved lung function due to improved lung volumes
- Improved quality of life
- Reduced reliance on mechanical ventilation
- Feeling of psychological wellbeing
Above: Improving lung function and exercise tolerance through exercise supervised by a specilaist physiotherapistWho would benefit from glossopharyngeal breathing?
In order for glossopharyngeal breathing to be successful, the patient must be determined to succeed. This technique is often used for people who require regular respiratory support of various forms, conditions include:
- Respiratory paralysis
- Previous polio sufferers
- Neurological conditions that affect the respiratory system
To find out if respiratory physiotherapy may be able to help you manage your condition, or to book an appointment,please contact us by calling Physio.co.uk today on 0330 088 7800. Alternatively, make an appointment online using our online booking system.
